Wash chamber for automated appendage-washing apparatus

ABSTRACT

A wash cylinder or chamber for an automated cleaning station to clean an object or a person&#39;s body part includes nozzles on the interior of the cylinder, the nozzles of one embodiment comprising an increasing roll angle providing a novel spray pattern. Additionally, embodiments of the invention include fluid guidance and conveyance structures, angled nozzles, sealing structures, finger guards, wash chamber seating mechanisms and drains, and nozzle ribs that prevent the nozzle from being dislodged during the operation of the cleaning station Also disclosed are methods of washing an object or body part using a wash cylinder or chamber and methods of assembling a wash cylinder or chamber.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 11/829,769, filed Jul. 27, 2007, entitled “Wash Chamber forAutomated Appendage-Washing Apparatus” which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/863,753 filed on Oct. 31,2006, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/909,370, filedon Mar. 30, 2007, the entire contents of which are incorporated hereinby reference in their entirety. In addition, the present applicationcross-references, but does not claim priority to U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 11/689,582 filed Mar. 22, 2007, the entire content of which areincorporated herein by reference in its entirety for at least thepurposes of enablement and written description.

FIELD

The present invention relates to wash chambers for use in automatedcleaning systems, and more particularly, to wash chambers used inautomated washing devices used to clean at least a portion of an objector an appendage of a user.

BACKGROUND

The following text should not be construed as an admission of knowledgein the prior art. Furthermore, citation or identification of anydocument in this application is not an admission that such document isavailable as prior art to the present invention, or that any referenceforms a part of the common general knowledge in the art.

Touchless automated hand-washing devices that incorporate rotatingcylinders are known and have been in use for some time. These devicesare designed to wash and/or provide a proper amount of anti-microbialsolution to a person's hand and forearm within in a set time. Thecylinders can be mounted in a free standing device and are adapted toreceive the person's hand and forearm. The cylinders include an annulusor inner cavity that, in operation, is filled with cleaning fluid. Asthe inner cavity is filled, the cleaning fluid is forced out of a nozzlearrangement on the inner surface of the cylinder and into the interiorof the cylinder. In order to provide greater coverage of the hand andforearm, the cylinders are rotated to provide a spray pattern.

A nozzle arrangement known in the prior art is disclosed by U.S. Pat.No. 4,817,651 (“the '651 patent”). This patent discloses a three-setgrouping of nozzles positioned on the interior surface of the rotatingcylinder. A first set of nozzles is positioned on a closed end of thecylinder opposite from an open end through which a person's hands areplaced. The closed end includes a frusto-conical shape that allows thefirst set of nozzles to be positioned such that cleaning fluid issprayed toward the user's hand. Additionally, the frusto-conical endportion may include a drain through which spent cleaning fluid may exitthe cylinder. A second set of nozzles are arranged in a ring on theinner surface of the cylinder just inside the open end. The second setof nozzles are angled downward, such that their spray is directed intothe cylinder. A third set of nozzles are positioned in a helical arrayalong the length of the cylinder.

As described in the '651 patent, the three-set nozzle arrangement hasseveral advantages. Firstly, the fingernails and the ends of the fingersreceive a direct spray from the first set of nozzles. Secondly, thespray pattern that results from the second set of nozzles produces a“curtain” that prevents the cleaning fluid from being splashed orsprayed out of the cylinder. Lastly, the helical arrangement of nozzlesalong the length of the cylinder in combination the rotation of thecylinders results in debris and spent cleaning fluid being sweptdownward, toward the closed end of the cylinder. In particular, thethird set of nozzles are disposed in a left-hand helical pattern which,when combined with the clock-wise rotation of the cylinders, results ina succession of sprays that travel down the arm from above the wristtowards the fingertips.

The spray pattern that results from the nozzle arrangement depends inpart on the orientation and spray pattern of the individual nozzles.While the '651 patent contains little discussion of these details, U.S.Pat. No. 5,823,447 (“the '447 patent”) is directed to an angled fannozzle for use with a rotating cleaning cylinder. The nozzleconstruction disclosed in the '447 patent produces a flat “fan” pattern.In particular, cleaning fluid is ejected into the interior of thecylinder from a nozzle having a small square aperture. The spray ofcleaning fluid spreads out through an angle while remainingsubstantially in a single plane. The nozzle is constructed such that theplane of the fan spray pattern is angled at 15 degrees with respect tothe axis of the nozzle. As described by in the '447 patent, the nozzlemay be positioned on the interior of the cylinder at a 15 degree tilttowards the closed end of the cylinder. The 15 degree angle of the fanspray combines with the 15 degrees tilt of the nozzle, resulting in afan spray directed partially downwards, towards the closed end of thecylinder. With respect to the plane of the cylinder opening, the fanspray is directed downward at a 30 degree angle. This downwardly angledfan spray operates to direct spent cleaning fluid downwards, towards theclosed end of the cylinder.

While the '447 patent discloses an angle of the flat fan spray withrespect to the plane of the cylinder opening, this reference is silentas to the rotational orientation of the fan spray pattern around withrespect to the normal of the inner wall (or “roll” angle as definedlater herein). For example, a particular nozzle may be positioned in a 0degree rotational orientation, such that the flat fan spray is ejectedfrom the nozzle “horizontally,” that is, in a plane parallel with theplane of the cylinder opening. Alternatively, a particular nozzle may bepositioned in the 90 degree orientation such that the flat fan spray isejected “vertically,” that is, in a plane perpendicular to the plane ofthe cylinder opening. As can be appreciated, a particular nozzle can bepositioned at any angle between 0 and 90 degrees such that the flat fanspray has both a vertical and horizontal component.

It has been found that particular orientations and arrangements ofnozzles not disclosed or suggested by the '651 patent or the '447patent, such as the rotational orientation of particular nozzles,produce a novel spray pattern having increased coverage of the hand andforearm of the user. Additionally, the prior art fails to disclose othernovel features associated with the cylinders that allow for faster andmore reliable completion of wash cycles, safer operation, and easierassembly.

Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the presentinvention is not entitled to antedate a patent, publication or inventionby another by virtue of prior invention.

SUMMARY

It is to be understood that the present invention includes a variety ofdifferent versions or embodiments, and this Summary is not meant to belimiting or all-inclusive. This Summary provides some generaldescriptions of some of the embodiments, but may also include some morespecific descriptions of certain embodiments.

The present invention is directed to a chamber, such as a wash chamberor cylinder, for use in connection with an automated fluid dispensingapparatus, such as a hand-washing machine. An embodiment of the washcylinder described herein includes a plurality of nozzles disposed onthe interior of the cylinder that deliver water and/or cleaning fluid asthe cylinder rotates around a person's hand and forearm. The cylinderincludes an inner cylinder coupled to an outer cylinder. Water and/orcleaning fluid is delivered to the nozzles through an inner cavitylocated between the inner and outer cylinders.

Wash cylinders in accordance with embodiments of the present inventioninclude features that allow for fast, reliable delivery of water and/orcleaning fluid. At least one embodiment of the present inventioncomprises a cylinder that includes a flow guidance structure disposed ona surface of the inner cylinder that reduces turbulence of the incomingfluid flow. Additionally, the cylinder may include a sealing mechanismthat results in greater reliability under high pressure conditions.

Cylinders in accordance with embodiments of the present inventioninclude drain holes sized to prevent fingers and/or jewelry from beingcaught while the cylinder is in motion. In particular, the drain holesor perforations are preferably between in 1/32 inch to ¼ inch indiameter. Additionally, embodiments of the cylinder include structurethat prevents fingers and/or jewelry from being caught between therotating cylinder and non-moving parts of the machine.

Cylinders in accordance with embodiments of the present inventioninclude features that produce an advantageous spray pattern. Like theprior art, at least one embodiment of the present invention uses athree-set nozzle arrangement having a bottom nozzle set, a top ringnozzle set, and a helical array nozzle set. In contrast to the priorart, the present invention includes a novel arrangement of helicalnozzles that produce improved coverage of the hand and forearm of theuser. In particular, a helical array of nozzles having progressivelysteeper rotational angles is disclosed. Additionally, embodiments of thepresent invention include one or more off-helix nozzles.

Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a nozzle strip orinlay that includes a plurality of nozzles along a preferred alignment,such as a linear alignment, a helical alignment, and/or a curvedalignment.

Embodiments of the presents may comprise a fluid conveyance feature tolimit fluid volumes and decrease the cycle time.

Embodiments of the present invention may comprise any one or more of thenovel features described herein, including the in the DetailedDescription, and/or shown in the drawings.

As used herein, “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or” areopen-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive inoperation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, Band C”, “at least one of A, B, or C”, “one or more of A, B, and C”, “oneor more of A, B, or C” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B andC together.

Various embodiments of the present invention are set forth in theattached figures and in the detailed description of the invention asprovided herein and as embodied by the claims. It should be understood,however, that this Summary does not contain all of the aspects andembodiments of the present invention, is not meant to be limiting orrestrictive in any manner, and that the invention as disclosed herein isand will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art toencompass obvious improvements and modifications thereto.

Additional advantages of the present invention will become readilyapparent from the following discussion, particularly when taken togetherwith the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning station in accordance withembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic depiction of a portion of the cleaning stationdepicted in FIG. 1;

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of the wash cylinder shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 2C is an additional perspective view of the wash cylinder shown inFIG. 2A;

FIG. 2D is a close-up view of a portion of a cleaning station inaccordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 3A is cross-sectional view of the wash cylinder and the seatingassembly shown in FIG. 2A;

FIGS. 3 B-E are side elevation views of an inner cylinder in accordancewith embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the closed end of the wash cylinderand the seating assembly shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 4B is a detail view of a portion of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a prior art wash cylinder;

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of the seating assembly shown in FIG. 2A;

FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of a wash cylinder in accordancewith an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 8A is an elevation view of the inlet side of a square nozzle;

FIG. 8B is a side elevation view of a square nozzle;

FIG. 8C is an elevation view of outlet side of a square nozzle;

FIG. 9A is an elevation view of the inlet side of a straight nozzle;

FIG. 9B is a side elevation view of a straight nozzle;

FIG. 9C is an elevation view of outlet side of a straight nozzle;

FIG. 10A is an elevation view of the inlet side of an angled nozzle;

FIG. 10B is a side elevation view of an angled nozzle;

FIG. 10C is an elevation view of outlet side of an angled nozzle;

FIGS. 11A-C are perspective views of a nozzle inlay;

FIG. 12A is an elevation view of the inlet side of a nozzle inlay;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of a nozzle inlay;

FIG. 12C is an elevation view of the outlet side of a nozzle inlay;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a nozzle inlay attached to a washcylinder;

FIGS. 14A-B are perspective views of an inner cylinder having a nozzleinlay;

FIGS. 15A-C are perspective views of the spray pattern produced byhelical nozzles in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 15D is a perspective view of the spray pattern produced by a topring nozzle in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 16A is a cut-away perspective view of the combined spray patternproduced by an exemplary nozzle arrangement in accordance withembodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 16B is a cross-sectional view of a prior art wash cylinder;

FIG. 17 is a exploded perspective view of an embodiment of the presentinvention having a fluid conveyance structure;

FIGS. 18A-B are a perspective views of another embodiment of the presentinvention having a fluid conveyance structure;

FIGS. 19A-B are perspective views of yet another embodiment of thepresent invention having a fluid conveyance structure;

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of cylinder in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of wash chamber in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention.

The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and may, in part, includeexaggerated dimensions for clarity.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to one or moreelements of a system and method for providing automated washing of anappendage of a person. In addition, it is to be understood thatembodiments of the present application are also applicable to othertypes of washing systems, including for example, boot-washing systems.In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, cleaningeffectiveness can be improved from that of traditional sink and faucetsystems, as well as existing automated cleaning stations by using anautomated cleaning station with a novel wash cylinder construction.Various embodiments of the present invention are described in thefollowing text and in the drawings; however, it is to be understood thatexamples described herein are not meant to be limiting. Accordingly, thescope of the present invention includes modifications and alternativesto the example embodiments described in text and shown in the figuresassociated herewith.

Cleaning stations operate to dispense one or more fluids, such as water,a cleaning fluid, such as soap, and/or a disinfectant, etc., while aperson's hands are placed in a washbasin. As used herein, a “washbasin”or “wash chamber” means a structure associated with the cleaning stationwhere an appendage, such as a hand (or foot/boot) are cleaned, such asone or more wash cylinders, spray areas, pans, tubs, etc. Individuals,such as employees of a laboratory, food service related industry, orhealth care facility, may be instructed to wash their hands for aminimum amount of time that has been determined to be sufficient toprovide a complete cleaning. In situations where hand (or boot) washingis required, or because of personal preferences, the user may berequired to use (or otherwise desire to use) an automated cleaningstation that incorporates a wash cylinder.

Referring now to FIG. 1, an automated cleaning station 100 is depicted.The cleaning station 100 includes a body 104 and a pair of washbasins,and more preferably, cylinders 108 residing within the body 104 forreceiving an object. As used herein an “object” may refer to anythingcleaned by the automated cleaning station. An object may be, forexample, an appendage of a user, a tool, a boot, and/or an inanimateobject, etc. As used herein, “inanimate object” means an object that isprincipally not a biological tissue, although biological matter may beassociated with the inanimate object, for example, a virus, bacteria,and/or pieces of tissue on a tool. For purposes of discussion, thevarious embodiments of the present invention are discussed herein inconnection with cleaning an appendage of a user. However, it should beunderstood that the various embodiments may be used in connection withother objects.

The automated cleaning station 100 is shown as a free standing machine.Alternatively, the automated cleaning station 100 may be incorporatedinto a counter top, wall, or other structure. Embodiments of the presentinvention include at least one washbasin that comprises a cylinder 108that rotates around a user's hand to clean the user's hand. Althoughreferred to and shown as a “cylinder,” the washbasin or wash chamber maycomprise another shape. The cylinder may rotate either clockwise orcounter-clockwise. Cleaning is performed by the application of fluids tothe hands, wherein the fluids include water, a cleaning agent (such assoap), and/or a disinfectant, such as chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG). Thefluids are directed toward the user's hands through a series of nozzles,wherein the nozzles provide coverage of cleaning fluids to the user'shand to clean and rinse the user's hand.

In use, the user inserts their hand into the cylinder 108 and thecleaning station 100 automatically initiates a cleaning cycle by readingthe presence of the user's hand within the cylinder 104, such as by anoptical sensor (not shown).

At least one embodiment of the present invention is directed to a novelwash cylinder for use in automated hand-washing machines. The rotatingcylinder construction is especially effective in providing a completehand washing in a quick and reliable manner. In that regard, therotating cylinders may be provided with a plurality of nozzle sets, suchas a three-set nozzle arrangement. At least one embodiment of thepresent invention features a novel orientation and arrangement ofcylinder nozzles. Additionally, embodiments of the present inventioninclude other novel features of a wash cylinder that provide forimproved flow of water and/or cleaning fluid in and out of the cylinder.

When a person places his or her hands in the wash cylinders 108, theyare washed and/or disinfected in a series of steps. Within approximatelyten seconds the hands receive a (1) purge, (2) soap, and (3) rinsecycle. The purge cycle allows the water to reach the proper temperature.The soap cycle washes and allows the soap or disinfectant to kill germs.The rinse cycle removes the soap.

FIG. 2A provides a view of part of an exemplary automated cleaningstation 100 used by an employee whose hand 200 is being placed inposition to be washed. One wash cylinder 108 and other componentsassociated with the wash cylinder 108 can be seen in FIG. 2A. The washcylinder 108 may be associated with a drive assembly 204 including adrive mechanism 208 and a drive belt 212. The drive assembly 204operates to rotate the wash cylinder 108 when the automated cleaningstation 100 is in use. As the wash cylinder 108 rotates, a plurality ofnozzles (not shown) disposed on the interior of the wash cylinder 108spray water and/or cleaning fluid onto the hand 200. The wash cylinder108 is interconnected to a seating assembly 216 that provides the washcylinder 108 with a mounting within a receiving basin 220. As describedin greater detail below, the receiving basin 220 receives spent waterand/or cleaning fluid that drains out of the wash cylinder 108 after usein connection with washing or rinsing the hand 200. The spent fluid thenexits through the basin drain 222 towards the sewer other disposalsystem.

FIGS. 2B and 2C show detailed perspective views of the wash cylinder108. The wash cylinder 108 includes an open end 224 and afrusto-conically shaped closed end 228. The closed end 228 includes awater inlet 232 and a plurality of drains 236. The open end 224 of thewash cylinder 108 features a rim 240 that includes a recessed portion244. The recessed portion 244 is adapted to mate with a circular flangedisposed on the automated cleaning station 100. The circular flange 248can be seen with reference to FIG. 2D, which shows a close-up view of aportion of an automated cleaning station 100, including a top portion ofthe wash cylinder 108. As can be seen in FIG. 2D, the automated cleaningstation 100 may include a circular flange 248 that is operativelyassociated with the recessed portion 244 of the cylinder. Thisarrangement prevents a person's fingers, and/or loose items, such asjewelry, from being caught between the rotating cylinder and non-movingportions of the automated cleaning station 100.

An understanding of the features of the appendage receiving member, suchas wash cylinder 108, may be gained by an inspection of FIG. 3A, whichdepicts a cross-sectional view of the wash cylinder 108 and the seatingassembly 216. Cylinder 108 preferably rotates around its rotational axisRA, such as in the direction of arrow R shown in FIG. 3A. At least oneembodiment of the present invention includes nozzles arranged in a ringon the top end (the end proximate to the opening of the cylinder),nozzles arranged in a helical pattern along the length of the cylinder,one or more off-helix nozzles, and nozzles disposed on the bottom of theclosed end of the cylinder. A portion of the complete arrangement ofnozzles can be seen in FIG. 3A. In particular, bottom nozzles 300 arepositioned on the closed end 228 of the wash cylinder 108. Top ringnozzles 304 are arranged just inside the open end 224 of the washcylinder 108. Helical nozzles 308 are positioned in an array along thelength of the wash cylinder 108. Four helical nozzles 308 are shown inFIG. 3A. However, it should be understood that the wash cylinder 108 mayinclude additional helical nozzles 308 disposed on portions of thecylinder 108 that are not visible in the cross sectional view shown inFIG. 3A. In particular, the complete wash cylinder 108 may include anynumber of helical nozzles, such as for example, five, six, seven, eight,nine, or ten. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention includeone or more off-helix nozzles 312.

As can be seen in FIG. 3A, the cylinder 108 includes or comprises anappendage receiving member having an inner member, such as innercylinder 316, and an outer member, such as outer cylinder 320. Theappendage receiving member and its inner and outer member (wherepresent) may be cylindrical or substantially cylindrical in shape, ormay comprise another shape. An annular cavity 324 is established betweenthe inner cylinder 316 and the outer cylinder 320. By way of example andnot limitation, the annular cavity 324 is preferably 0.070 inches wide.Alternatively, the annular cavity 324 may be between 1/16 inch and 3/16inch wide. The length L of the wash cylinder 108 is preferably 11.490inches. Alternatively, the length L of wash cylinder 108 may be between12.5 and 10.5 inches. The diameter D of the wash cylinder 108 ispreferably 6.580 inches. Alternatively, the diameter D of the washcylinder 108 but may be between 7.5 and 5.5 inches. The above noteddimensions are example dimensions for a wash cylinder 108 used to cleana person's hands and are not meant to be limiting. Cylinders havingdifferent dimensions are within the scope of the present invention. Forexample, larger cylinders can be used to clean a person's hand, forearmand upper arm. Also, as those skilled in the art will appreciate,different sized cylinders can be used to clean a person's foot and/orlower leg.

The nozzles discussed above are disposed on the inner cylinder 316. Acomplete nozzle arrangement can be seen with reference to FIGS. 3B-E,each of which shows the same inner cylinder 316 from a differentviewpoint. The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 3B-3Eshows a nozzle arrangement having eight helical nozzles 308 a-h. Theviews shown in FIGS. 3B-E are 90 degrees apart, such that FIGS. 3B-Etogether show a complete 360 degree view of the inner cylinder 316. Byway of illustration and not limitation, the inner cylinder 316 includesfour bottom nozzles 300; eight top ring nozzles 304; eight helicalnozzles 308 a-h, and two off-helix nozzles 312. It should be understoodthat alternative embodiments of the present invention may include anysuitable number of top ring nozzles, helical nozzles, off-helix nozzlesand bottom nozzles.

In operation, the annular cavity 324 established between the innercylinder 316 and the outer cylinder 320 is filled with water and/orcleaning fluid under pressure. Fluid enters the annular cavity 324through the fluid inlet 232 disposed on the closed end 228 of the washcylinder 108. As best seen in FIG. 3A, the fluid inlet 232 includes acircular hole 321 in the outer cylinder 320 and a tubular portion 322depending therefrom. Within a short time after initiating a cleaningcycle, the annular cavity 324 fills and becomes pressurized. Thepressure within the annular cavity 324 forces the fluid through thenozzles 300, 304, 308 a-h and 312 and into the interior of the washcylinder 108. As a result, a spray pattern is established in theinterior of the wash cylinder 108. Fluid is removed from the washcylinder 108 through the drains 236 disposed on the closed end 228. Thespay pattern established in the interior of the cylinder 108 isdiscussed in greater detail below. In particular, embodiments of thepresent invention include a novel orientation and arrangement of nozzlesthat produce an advantageous spray pattern having greater coverage ofthe hand 200 and forearm of a user.

A more detailed understanding of the flow of fluid in and out of thewash cylinder 108 can be gained by an inspection of FIG. 4A, which showsa close-up view of the closed end 228 of an embodiment of a washcylinder 108. Initially, as depicted by flow arrow 400, fluid entersthrough the fluid inlet 232. Then, as depicted by flow arrows 404 a and404 b, the fluid flows into the annular cavity 324. It should beunderstood that as FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of the cylinder108, only a portion of the fluid flow it depicted. In reality, the fluidflowing in from the inlet 232 spreads out in all directions to enter theannular cavity 324. When the annular cavity 324 fills and becomespressurized, fluid is forced through the nozzles. The flow of fluidthrough one nozzle 308 h is depicted in FIG. 4A. In particular, flowarrow 412 depicts flow into the nozzle 308 h from the annular cavity324, and flow arrow 416 depicts flow out of the nozzle 308 h and intothe interior of the wash cylinder 108. While FIG. 4A shows the flow offluid through only one nozzle 308 h, it should be understood thatsimilar flow exists in other nozzles associated with the wash cylinder.After the fluid washes or rinses the hand 200, the fluid exits the washcylinder 108 through the drains 236, as depicted by flow arrows 418. Thespent fluid then enters the receiving basin 220 (shown in FIG. 2A) fordrainage out of the system.

Referring still to FIG. 4A, and in accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention, the tip of the closed end 228 of the inner cylinder316 includes a flow guidance structure or protrusion 420. The protrusion420 is disposed on the inner cylinder 316 in line with the inlet 232.Fluid is deflected radially by the protrusion 420 as it enters throughthe inlet 232 into the cavity 324 between the inner cylinder 316 and theouter cylinder 320. This deflection serves to direct the flow of fluidand leads to a decreased level of turbulence in the fluid. FIG. 5depicts the situation that results from fluid entering a cavity 500without being deflected radially. In particular, the fluid 502 flowsperpendicularly into a surface 506 of an inner cylinder 504. As a resultof the turbulence created 508, the fluid 502 does not flow smoothly.This leads to a loss of fluid pressure and a longer time needed to fillthe cylinder.

Referring again to FIG. 4A, as a result of the fluid guidance structureor protrusion 420, the cavity between the inner cylinder 316 and theouter cylinder 320 is filled and pressurized faster. More specifically,the fluid guidance structure 420 includes a symmetrical sloped surfacethat has its greatest location of projection 421 disposed in line with acentral axis around which the wash cylinder 108 rotates. As shown inFIG. 4B, sloped surface 436 of protrusion 420 is offset from therotational axis RA of the cylinder 108 by an angle α, where angle α isless than 90°. The speed in which the cavity is filled is important fordelivering a complete hand washing in a timely manner. In particular,the cleaning station 100 utilizes a number of different cycles, such aswash and rinse, that require different fluids to flow in and out of thecylinder. As a result, it is advantageous to fill and pressurize thecavity 324 quickly in order to provide a smooth and fast transitionbetween cycles. Additionally, the overall time needed to complete thetotal number of cycles is important for providing a reliablehandwashing. It has been shown that people are more likely to wash theirhands if the handwashing can be accomplished in a short period of time.Accordingly, for a number reasons, a reduction in the time needed tofill and pressurize the cavity 324, as accomplished by the protrusion420, achieves an improved and more desirable handwashing.

As spent fluid drains out of the wash cylinder 108 and into thereceiving basin 220, the seating assembly 216 may become partially ortotally submerged before the fluid exits through the basin drain 222.Accordingly, the seating assembly 216 is designed to operate in thepresence of water and/or cleaning fluid. Components of the seatingassembly 216 can be better seen in the exploded view shown in FIG. 6. Ascan be seen therein, the seating assembly 216 includes a bearing 600 andan O-ring 604 that are positioned within a bearing block 608. Thebearing block is secured by means of a washer 612 and a panel nut 616 orother retaining hardware. The O-ring 604 operates to prevent fluid fromentering the seating assembly 216. As a result, the connection betweenthe wash cylinder 108 and the automated cleaning station 100 operatesmore effectively over a longer lifetime. Additionally, the O-ring 604provides for a smoother connection when the cylinder 108 is mounted tothe seating assembly 216, in comparison to previous friction-fitdesigns. Additionally, the O-ring 604 provides a seal between thebearing block 608 and the fluid inlet 232 preventing water and/orcleaning fluids from being lost in the receiving basin 220.

As described above, the appendage receiving member, such as washcylinder 108, includes an inner member, such as inner cylinder 316,assembled to or integrated with an outer member, such as outer cylinder320. As illustrated in the exploded view shown in FIG. 7, the washcylinder 108 features a water tight seal between the inner cylinder 316and the outer cylinder 320. In particular, the inner cylinder 316includes protrusions 700 that contain holes 704 adapted to receive aconnector, such as bolts or screws. The protrusions 700 are received inrecessed portions 708 disposed on the outer cylinder 320. The innercylinder 316 is interconnected to the outer cylinder 320 by screws thatare driven through holes 712 in the recessed portions 708 into the holes704 in the protrusions 700. Additionally, there are no hardware holes orprotrusions on the inside of the inner cylinder that can cause harm to auser's hand. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention,the water tight seal between the inner cylinder 316 and the outercylinder 320 may include other connecting mechanisms such as rivetsand/or glue.

Additionally, in order to provide a water tight seal between the innercylinder 316 and the outer cylinder 320, the outer cylinder 320 includesa flange 714 that is adapted for engagement with a lip 718 disposed onthe inner cylinder 316. An O-ring (not shown) is positioned within thelip 718 to provide a seal between the inner cylinder 316 and the outercylinder 320. The combination of the flange 714, lip 718 and the O-ringprovides a seal that can resist high pressures exerted by fluid in thecavity between the cylinders 316 and 320. (The interconnection betweenthe lip 718 and the flange 714 can be seen in FIG. 2D) Without this sealthe cavity 324 may expand under high pressure conditions creating anopening between the cylinders 316 and 320 through which fluid may leak.A decreased fluid pressure will then be available at the nozzles and,accordingly, an inferior hand washing will result. Additionally, fluidleakage may result in unwanted fluid flow into portions of the automatedcleaning station 100 that are unconnected to a drain 236 and/or areotherwise unable to receive fluid. Resulting fluid accumulation can leadto rust, electrical shorts, and/or other damage to components of theautomated cleaning station 100. Accordingly, the seal structuredescribed above provides a configuration that maintains fluid pressuresand prevents undesirable leakage.

Referring still to FIG. 7, the drains 236 are disposed on the innercylinder 316 and include a drain wall 716. When the inner cylinder 316is connected to the outer cylinder 320, each drain wall 716 is receivedin, and protrudes through a hole 720 in the outer cylinder 320. AnO-ring (not shown) may be positioned around each drain wall 716 toprovide a seal between the inner cylinder 316 and the outer cylinder320. The surface of each drain 236 includes a plurality of perforations724, which are large enough to allow fluid to pass through, and yetsmall enough to prevent a finger or small object from passing through.This drain configuration prevents a person's finger and/or their jewelryfrom being caught in the drain 236 when the wash cylinder is in motion.In addition, the relatively small size of the perforations 724 preventstrash that may be deposited in the wash cylinder 108 from working itsway into and clogging the drainage system.

As can be seen in the exploded view of FIG. 7, the nozzles associatedwith the wash cylinder 108 are connected to the inner cylinder 316. Inparticular, the inner cylinder 316 includes a plurality of shaped holesthat are adapted to receive a nozzle of a particular shape.(Alternatively, the nozzle may simply be a slit in the in wall of theinner cylinder 316.) The top ring nozzles 304, the helical nozzles 308a-h and the off-helix nozzles 312 have a “hat-shaped” constructionadapted to fit in a similarly shaped hole in the inner cylinder. As canbe seen in FIG. 7, an off-helix nozzle 312 is shown removed from itsshaped hole 732 a. Additionally, a top ring nozzle 304 is shown removedfrom its shaped hole 732 b. The bottom nozzles 300 have a “square”construction. As can be seen in FIG. 7, a bottom nozzle 300 can be seenresiding in its shaped hole 732 c.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the bottomnozzles 300 are implemented as square nozzles 800. The square nozzle 800configuration is illustrated in FIGS. 8A-C. As can be seen, the squarenozzle 800 includes an inlet side 804 having an inlet slot 808, and anoutlet side 812 having an outlet slot 816. In at least one embodiment,the inlet slot 808 and the outlet slot 816 are perpendicular to eachother. The square nozzle 800 has a shape that is adapted to be receivedin a similarly shaped nozzle hole 732 c associated with the innercylinder 316. When incorporated into the inner cylinder 316, the inletside 804 is flush with the outer surface 424 of the inner cylinder 316,and the outlet side 812 is flush with the inner surface 428 of the innercylinder 316. In operation, the water and/or cleaning fluid flows fromthe annular cavity 324 through the slots 808 and 816 of the squarenozzle 800. The bottom nozzles 300 are placed in a position whereintheir spray may directly impact the fingernails and finger tips of thehand

The bottom nozzles 300, shown in FIGS. 8A-C, include ribs 814 disposedon the inlet side 804 of nozzle 800. The ribs 814 prevent the nozzlefrom being pushed out and dislodged during operation of the washcylinder. In particular, the ribs 814 engage the inner wall 432 of theouter cylinder 320 when the inner cylinder 316 is installed in the outercylinder 320. In accordance with embodiments of the present invention,any of the nozzles disclosed herein may incorporate a one or more ribs814.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the washcylinder 108 may incorporate both a “straight” type nozzle and an“angled” type nozzle, both of which have a hat-shaped construction, asdescribed above. As described in greater detail below, the differencebetween the straight nozzle and the angled nozzle is in the orientationof internal slots that form a passageway in which fluid travels from theinlet side to the outlet side. Both the straight and the angled nozzlesproduce a flat “fan” spray pattern that emerges at a small-area openingon the outlet side and spreads out through an angle while remainingsubstantially in one plane. However, as result of the differing internalslot orientations, the angle at which the fan spray emerges from thestraight nozzle 900 (described in connection with FIGS. 9A-C) isdifferent from the angle at which the fan spray emerges from the anglednozzle 1000 (described in connection with FIGS. 10A-C).

An exemplary straight nozzle 900 designed to be received in the shapedholes 732 a, is illustrated in FIGS. 9A-C. The straight nozzles 900include a first or larger-diameter disk 904 integrated with orinterconnected to second or smaller-diameter disk 908. The inlet side912 of the straight nozzle 900 corresponds to the outside face of thelarger-diameter disk 904. The outlet side 916 of the straight nozzle 900corresponds to the outside face of the smaller-diameter disk 908. Asbest seen in FIG. 4A, when incorporated into the inner cylinder 316, theinlet side 912 is flush with the outer surface 424 of the inner cylinder316, and the outlet side 916 is flush with the inner surface 428 of theinner cylinder 316.

Still referring to FIGS. 9A-C, the straight nozzle 900 features twointersecting circular shaped slots 920 and 924 that together form apassageway through which fluid may travel. As best seen in FIG. 9B, theinlet slot 920 begins on the inlet side 912 and continues through aportion of the width W of the straight nozzle 900. The outlet slot 924begins on the outlet side 916 and continues through a portion of thewidth W of the straight nozzle 900 such that an intersection is providedwith the inlet slot 920. As can be seen in FIG. 9A, the inlet slot 920includes a thin rectangularly-shaped inlet opening 928 in the inlet side912 of the straight nozzle 900. Similarly, as can be seen in FIG. 9C,the outlet slot 924 includes a thin rectangularly-shaped outlet opening932 in the outlet side 916 of the straight nozzle 900. As can be seen,the inlet opening 928 and the outlet opening 932 are approximatelyperpendicular. In operation, the fan spray produced by the straightnozzle 900 emerges at a 90 degree angle with respect to the outlet side916 of the straight nozzle 900. In accordance with embodiments of thepresent invention, the helical nozzles 308 a-h and the off-helix nozzles312 are implemented as straight nozzles 900.

FIG. 10A through FIG. 10C provide illustrations of the angled nozzle1000. As can be seen, the angled nozzle 1000 includes the hat-shapedconstruction described above, including a larger diameter disk 1004 anda smaller diameter disk 1008. The angled nozzle additionally includes aninlet side 1012 and an outlet side 1016. Similar to the straight nozzle900, the angled nozzle 1000 features two intersecting circular shapedslots 1020 and 1024 that together form a passageway through which fluidmay travel. As best seen in FIG. 10B, the inlet slot 1020 begins on theinlet side 1012 and continues through a portion of the width W of theangled nozzle 1000. The outlet slot 1024 begins on the outlet side 1016and continues through a portion of the width W of the angled nozzle 1000such that an intersection is provided with the inlet slot 1020. Incontrast to the straight nozzle 900, the angled nozzle 1000 includes anoutlet slot 1024 disposed at an angle θ with respect to the axis A ofthe nozzle 1000. By way of example and not limitation, the angle betweenthe outlet slot 1024 and the axis A is preferably 15 degrees. Inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention, the anglebetween the outlet slot 1024 and the axis A may be between 5 and 30degrees. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the presentinvention, the angle between the outlet slot 1024 and the axis A may bebetween 1 and 90 degrees. With reference to FIG. 10A, the inlet slot1020 includes a thin rectangularly shaped inlet opening 1028 in theinlet side 1012 of the angled nozzle 1000. Similarly, as can be seen inFIG. 10C, the outlet slot 1024 terminates in a thin rectangularly shapedoutlet opening 1032 in the outlet side 1016 of the angled nozzle 1000.As can be seen, the inlet opening 1028 and the outlet opening 1032 areapproximately perpendicular. By way of example and not limitation, as aresult of the 15 degree angle of the outlet slot 1024, the fan sprayproduced by the angled nozzle 1000 emerges at a 75 degree angle withrespect to outlet side 1016 of the angled nozzle 1000. In accordancewith embodiments of the present invention, the top ring nozzles areimplemented as angled nozzles 1000. The top ring nozzles 304 (shown inFIG. 3A) are angled into the interior of the cylinder such that theyprovide a fluid “curtain” that minimizes the spraying and splashing offluid out of the cylinder 108 and provides washing at the wrist of thehand 200.

The nozzle holes 732 a-c may be a particular shape that is adapted toreceive a particular nozzle. For example, nozzles holes 732 a-b areadapted to receive hat-shaped nozzles (either a straight nozzle 900 oran angled nozzle 1000) and may include a smaller diameter portionadapted to fit only the smaller diameter-disk 904, 1004. Accordingly, itis only possible to insert the nozzle in one direction. Additionally,when different types of nozzles are used (e.g. straight nozzles 900 andangled nozzles 1000), the top ring nozzles 304 may be of a differentsize than the helical nozzles 308 a-h. Accordingly, the nozzle holes 732b associated with the top ring nozzles 304 are of a different size thanthe nozzle holes 732 a associated with the helical nozzles 308 a-h.Accordingly, a nozzle to be used in connection with helical nozzle 308a-h may not be inadvertently placed in a nozzle hole 732 b adapted toreceive a top ring nozzle 304, and vice versa. These nozzle featuresprovide ease for manufacturing while improving quality of flow becausethe nozzles are located in their proper position.

When incorporated into the inner cylinder 316, a particular nozzle(straight nozzle 900 or angled nozzle 1000) does not extend away fromthe inner surface 428 of the wash cylinder 108. Accordingly, they do notpresent any protrusions that would contact the hand during a wash.Additionally, as the nozzles 900, 1000 are not angled with respect tothe wall of the cylinder, the width of the cavity may be manufactured ata smaller width than was possible in previous designs. Additionally, thecomplexity of the mold tool of assembly and cylinder is decreased.

As mentioned above, straight nozzles 900 (typically used to implementthe helical nozzles 308 a-h and the off-helix nozzles 312) and theangled nozzles 1000 (typically used to implement the top ring nozzles304) both have a hat-shaped configuration that allows them to be fit ina nozzle hole 732 a-b. In accordance with an alternative embodiment ofthe invention, a plurality of nozzles may be integrally formed within asingle nozzle “inlay,” in order to provide greater ease in assembling awash cylinder 108. FIGS. 11A-C depict an example of a nozzle inlay 1100in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. In particular,FIGS. 11A-C show the exterior structure of a nozzle inlay 1100 havingfive nozzles 1102. Alternatively, the nozzle inlay 1100 may have adifferent number of nozzles, such as two, three, four, six or seven. Inone embodiment, the nozzle inlay 1100 has a single relatively longnozzle (not shown). The nozzle inlay 1100 has an inlet side 1104 and anoutlet side 1108. FIGS. 12A-C show the internal structure of the nozzleinlay 1100, including inlet slots 1204 and outlet slots 1208. While thenozzle inlay 1100 shown in FIGS. 11A-C and FIGS. 12A-C includes nozzlesof the straight type, it should be understood that nozzle inlays thatinclude nozzles of the angled type are within the scope of theinvention.

As shown in FIG. 13, wash cylinders 108 that incorporate nozzle inlayspreferably include a channel or recessed portion 1300 that is adapted toreceive the nozzle inlay 1100. Accordingly, multiple nozzles may beinstalled in the cylinder 108 in one step. When incorporated into theinner cylinder 316, the inlet side 1204 is flush with the outer surface424 of the inner cylinder 316, and the outlet side 1208 is flush withthe inner surface 428 of the inner cylinder 316.

FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B depict various nozzle inlays incorporated into aninner cylinder 316. For the exemplary embodiments of the inner cylindersdepicted therein, the inner cylinder 316 may include a curved typenozzle inlay 1400 that is disposed perpendicular to the axis of thecylinder, and a straight type nozzle inlay 1404 that is disposedparallel to the axis of the cylinder.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, the helicalnozzles 308 a-h may be implemented with straight nozzles 900 and eachnozzle disposed at a different angular orientation in order to provide aspray pattern having improved coverage of the user's hand and forearm.In particular, the helical nozzles 308 a-h may be disposed at differentangular orientations around the axis A of the nozzle to produce avariety of different angled spray patterns. The different angularorientations are achieved by the placement of the helical nozzles 308a-h at different angles within its nozzle hole 732 a. Alternatively,when nozzle inlays 1100 are used, the different angular orientations ofthe nozzles may be built into the nozzle inlay 1100 itself.

The spray pattern produced by disposing a straight nozzle 900 at anangular orientation with respect to its axis A is different from thespray pattern produced by the angled nozzle 1000. In order to moreclearly describe this distinction, a “pitch” and a “roll” angle aredefined. As used herein, the “pitch angle” is described as being theangle away from the axis of the nozzle. A “roll angle” is defined asbeing around the axis A of the nozzle. The internal structure of thenozzles determines the pitch angle of the spray pattern that isproduced. In particular, the angled slots 1020 and 1024 of the anglednozzle 1000 result in a spray pattern having, for example, a 15 degreepitch angle. Similarly, the orientation of the internal slots 920 and924 of the straight nozzle 900 result in spray pattern having a 0 degreepitch angle. In contrast, the roll angle is determined by theorientation in which the nozzle is placed in its nozzle hole 732 a. Asused herein, a nozzle oriented such that its outlet opening 932 or 1032lies in a plane parallel to a plane defined by the opening of thecylinder 108 has a spray pattern with a 0 degree roll angle.

Referring again to FIGS. 3B-E, the nozzles depicted therein producespray patterns having various pitch and roll angles. As mentioned above,the top ring nozzles 304 may be implemented with angled nozzles 1000.Furthermore, as can be seen, the nozzles 304 are oriented such thattheir inlet openings 1028 are “vertical.” As can be appreciated from thediscussion in connection with FIGS. 10A-C, their outlet openings 1032are then “horizontal” or, equivalently, in a plane parallel to a planedefined by the opening of the cylinder 108. Accordingly, and by way ofexample and not limitation, each nozzle 304 produces a fan spray havinga 15 degree pitch angle and a 0 degree roll angle. Also as mentionedabove, the helical nozzles 308 a-h may be implemented using straightnozzles 900. As can seen from FIGS. 3B-E, the nozzles 308 a-h areoriented at various rotational angles. Accordingly, the helical nozzles308 a-h produce fan sprays having 0 degree pitch angle and various rollangles.

In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, orienting thenozzles 308 a-h at progressively steeper roll angles produces a combinedspray pattern that produces an improved coverage of the hand and forearmand results in a thorough hand washing. Additionally, the off-helixnozzles 312 provide for an improved coverage of the hand and forearm. Asshown in FIGS. 3B-E, the helical nozzle 308 a has a roll angle ofapproximately 0 to 10 degrees. Generally, the helical nozzle 308 a maybe disposed at shallow angle defined herein as being between 0 degreesand 45 degrees. The helical nozzle 308 b has a roll angle ofapproximately 10 to 20 degrees. Continuing in this manner, it can beappreciated that helical nozzles 308 c-g have progressively steeper rollangles, ending with helical nozzle 308 h which has a roll angle ofapproximately 80 to 90 degrees.

In order to further clarify the spray pattern produced in the washcylinder 108, FIGS. 15A-D show individual spray patterns produced byvarious nozzles. In particular, FIG. 15A shows the spray pattern 1500produced by the helical nozzle 308 a. As can be seen, the spray patternproduced by this nozzle has 0 degree pitch angle and approximately a 0degree roll angle. FIG. 15B shows the spray pattern 1504 produced byhelical nozzle 308 b, which has a 0 degree pitch angle and a 15 degreeroll angle. FIG. 15C shows the spray pattern 1508 produced by nozzle 308h, which has a 0 degree pitch angle and a 90 degree roll angle. FIG. 15Dshows the spray pattern 1512 produced by the top ring nozzle 304, whichhas 15 degree pitch angle and a 0 degree roll angle. An appreciation ofthe difference between the pitch and roll angles may be gained by acomparison of FIG. 15B, which shows helical nozzle 308 b having a 0degree pitch angle and a 15 degree roll angle, with FIG. 15D shows topring nozzle 304 having a 15 degree pitch angle and a 0 degree rollangle.

FIG. 16 shows a simplified illustration of the combined spray patternthat results from the nozzle arrangement in accordance with theembodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 3B-E. The shadedportion represents the area having improved spray coverage. The dottedlines represent individual spray patterns associated with the helicalnozzles 308 a-h. As can be seen, the fan spray patterns associated withthe helical nozzles 308 begin with an upper-most nozzle 308 a having aspray pattern that is oriented approximately at 0 degree roll angle. Thespray patterns become progressively steeper, ending with the spraypattern associated with the nozzle 308 h closest to the closed end 228of the cylinder 108, which is oriented at approximately a 90 degree rollangle. It has been found that this arrangement of nozzles when combinedwith the cylinder's rotation provides an advantageous coverage ofcleaning spray to the hands and forearm of the user.

It should be understood that the flat fan spray pattern, discussed abovein connection with the various nozzles, is presented by way ofillustration and not limitation. Alternative embodiments of the presentinvention may employ nozzles having different spray patterns. Forexample, the present invention may use nozzles having a spherical spraypattern or a conical spray pattern. Additionally, the present inventionmay use nozzles that having a pulsing spray or nozzles that have ajetted spray.

Moreover, it should be understood that the nozzles angles discussedabove are presented by way of illustration and not limitation.Alternative values for both the pitch and roll angles are consideredwithin the scope of the invention. A particular embodiment of thepresent invention includes a first nozzle 308 a disposed at a roll angleof between 0 and 15 degrees, a second nozzle 308 b disposed at a rollangle of between 15 and 30 degrees, a third nozzle 308 c disposed at aroll angle of between 30 and 45 degrees, a fourth nozzle 308 d disposedat a fourth roll angle of between 45 and 60 degrees, a fifth nozzle 308e disposed at a roll angle of between 60 and 75 degrees, and a sixthnozzle 308 f disposed at a roll angle of between 75 and 90 degrees.Another embodiment of the present invention includes a first nozzle 308a disposed at a roll angle of between 0 and 11 degrees, a second nozzle308 b disposed at a roll angle of between 11 and 22 degrees, a thirdnozzle 308 c disposed at a roll angle of between 22 and 33 degrees, afourth nozzle 308 d disposed at a fourth roll angle of between 33 and 44degrees, a fifth nozzle 308 e disposed at a roll angle of between 44 and55 degrees, a sixth nozzle 308 f disposed at a roll angle of between 55and 66 degrees, a seventh nozzle 308 g disposed at a roll angle ofbetween 66 and 77 degrees, and an eighth nozzle 308 h disposed at aeighth roll angle of between 77 and 90 degrees.

The nozzle configurations of the present invention described abovediffer from nozzle configuration of the prior art in important respects.A configuration of nozzles known in the prior art is shown in FIG. 16B.FIG. 16B includes a wash chamber 6000 having a plurality of helicalnozzles 6004. As can be seen, each helical nozzle is oriented to producea spray pattern having a substantially 90 degree roll angle. Other knownprior art nozzle configurations include a first portion of the helicalnozzles 6004 which are oriented to produce a spray pattern having asubstantially 0 degree roll angle and a second portion of the helicalnozzles 6004 which are oriented to produce a spray pattern having aspray pattern having a substantially 90 degree roll. In contrast to theprior art, the present invention includes a nozzle arrangement havinghelical nozzles 308 oriented at progressively steeper roll angles.Additionally, the present invention may include a number of off-helixnozzles 312.

The wash chamber 6000 shown in FIG. 16B additionally includes otherfeatures known in the prior art. In particular, the wash chamber 6000includes a drain 6008. The drain 6008 has a larger area opening than thedrain 236 of the present invention. In contrast to the prior art, thedrain 236 of the present invention includes drain holes sized to preventfingers and/or jewelry from being caught while the cylinder is inmotion. Additionally, FIG. 16B shows a top or opening portion 6012 ofthe wash chamber 6000. In contrast to the present invention, the openingportion 6012 does not include a recessed portion adapted to operate witha circular flange to provide a finger guard. Additionally, the openingportion does not include a flange and lip structure, adapted to providea water tight seal between the inner cylinder 6016 and the outercylinder 6020.

In accordance with embodiments of the preset invention, the washcylinder may include a structure for delivering fluid directly to one ormore nozzles. The embodiment of the present invention depicted in FIG.17 includes a wash cylinder 1700 having a plurality of channels 1704disposed on the inner cylinder 1708. Each channel 1704 serves to directfluid to one or more nozzles 1712. By delivering fluid directly to thenozzles 1712 the speed at which fluid is delivered to the hand and/orforearm of the user may be increased and the time between wash cyclesmay be decreased. Furthermore, the volume of fluids used per wash cycleis significantly reduced.

Embodiments of the present invention may include a fluid deliverystructure that obviates the need for an outer cylinder. The embodimentof the present invention depicted in FIGS. 18A-B includes a washcylinder 1800 having a plurality of tubes 1804 associated with a fluidmanifold 1808. Initially, fluid enters the fluid manifold 1808 and isthen distributed through the tubes 1804 to a plurality of nozzles 1812.Each tube 1804 may deliver fluid from the fluid manifold 1808 to one ormore nozzles 1812. By way of illustration and not limitation, each tube1804 shown in FIGS. 18A-B delivers fluid to one nozzle 1812.

The embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 19A-B includeswash cylinder 1900 having a fluid duct 1904 that delivers fluid from afluid manifold 1908 to a plurality of nozzles. Initially, fluid entersthe fluid manifold 1908 and is distributed through the duct 1904 to thenozzles. As shown in FIGS. 19A-B, the fluid duct 1904 may include ahelical portion 1912 having a helical shape, which is adapted to deliverfluid to a series of nozzles arranged in a helical pattern.Additionally, the fluid duct 1904 may include a circular portion 1916having a circular or partial shape, which is adapted to deliver fluid toa plurality of nozzles arranged in a ring. The helical portion 1912 andthe circular portion 1916 may be interconnected, as shown in FIGS.19A-B. Alternatively, the circular portion 1916 may include a separatefluid delivery structure adapted to deliver fluid from the fluidmanifold 1908 to the circular portion 1916.

Both the tube system shown in FIGS. 18A-B and the duct system shown inFIGS. 19A-B, provide an alternative to the wash cylinder 108 having aninner cylinder 316 and an outer cylinder 320. More particularly, theembodiments shown in FIGS. 18A-B and FIGS. 19A-B do not include anannular cavity 324 that is filled and pressurized in order to deliverfluid to a plurality of nozzles. In that regard, the embodiments of thepresent invention shown in FIGS. 18A-B and FIGS. 19A-B, include one ormore void spaces 1816, 1920. The void spaces 1816, 1920 are adjacent toa fluid conveyance structure, such as the plurality of tubes 1804 or thefluid ducts 1904, and are not filled with fluid during the operation ofthe wash cylinder 1800, 1900. Accordingly, a smaller space is filledeach time a particular wash cycle is performed. As a result, the speedat which fluid is delivered to the hand and/or forearm of the user maybe increased and the time between wash cycles may be decreased, and thevolume of fluid used may be reduced.

Referring now to FIG. 20, and in accordance with at least one embodimentof the present invention, there is shown a single cylinder or washchamber 2000 with fluid conveyance structure or fluid duct 2004. Thefluid duct 2004 conveys fluid to the nozzle 2008. The nozzle 2008preferably includes an outlet side 2006 that is flush with the innersurface 2010 of the wash chamber 2000, and the nozzle 2008 projectsfluid into the appendage receiving cavity 2014 of the wash chamber 2000.

The fluid duct 2004 shown in FIG. 20 resides on an exterior surface 2012of the wash chamber 2000. The fluid duct 2004 is located a radialdistance 2016 from the center 2020 of the wash chamber 2000. A voidspace 2024 resides adjacent the fluid duct 2004. For the embodimentshown in FIG. 20, the void space 2024 is located a radial distance 2028from the center 2020 of the wash chamber 2000, wherein the radialdistance 2028 of the void space 2024 is substantially equal to theradial distance 2016 from the center 2020 of the wash chamber 2000 tothe fluid duct 2004. For the embodiment of the wash chamber 2000 shownin FIG. 20, the void space 2024 is laterally adjacent to the fluid duct2004 along a circular arc portion. That is, the void space 2024 and thefluid duct 2004 are laterally adjacent while being disposed atsubstantially the same radial distance from the center 2020. Moreparticularly, the void space 2024 and the fluid duct 2004 are offsetfrom each other by an angle, such as angle Δ shown in FIG. 20.

Still referring to FIG. 20, a second fluid duct 2032 is shown. Thesecond fluid duct 2032 of FIG. 20 comprises a tube. The second fluidduct 2032 may be in fluidic communication with fluid duct 2004, or itmay not be in fluidic communication with the fluid duct 2004.

Referring now to FIG. 21, and in accordance with at least one embodimentof the present invention, there is shown a wash chamber 2100 comprisingan outer member 2104 and an inner member 2108. An annular cavity 2112 islocated between the outer member 2104 and the inner member 2108, and atleast one fluid conveyance structure or fluid duct 2116 directs fluid toa nozzle 2120. For the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, the fluid duct 2116comprises a tube. The nozzle 2120 preferably includes an outlet side2124 that is flush with the inner surface 2128 of the inner member 2108,and the nozzle 2120 projects fluid into the appendage receiving cavity2132 of the wash chamber 2100.

The fluid duct 2116 is located a radial distance 2136 from the center2140 of the wash chamber 2100. A void space 2144 resides within theannular cavity 2112 and adjacent the fluid duct 2116. For the embodimentshown in FIG. 21, the void space 2144 is located a radial distance 2148from the center 2140 of the wash chamber 2100, wherein the radialdistance 2148 of the void space 2144 is substantially equal to theradial distance 2136 from the center 2140 of the wash chamber 2100 tothe fluid duct 2116. For the embodiment of the wash chamber 2100 shownin FIG. 21, the void space 2144 is located along a different alignmentor angular vector than the fluid duct 2116 relative to the center 2140of the wash chamber 2100. That is, the void space 2144 is laterallyadjacent the fluid duct 2116, but the void space 2144 is offset at anangle relative to the center 2140, such as angle Δ shown in FIG. 21.

Still referring to FIG. 21, additional fluid ducts 2152 are shown. Theadditional fluid ducts 2152 of FIG. 21 comprise tubes. For theembodiment shown in FIG. 21, the additional fluid ducts 2152 are not influidic communication with fluid duct 2116, although they may be influidic communication with the fluid duct 2116, such as by way of alaterally oriented tube (not shown).

Although the wash chambers described herein are anticipated for use incleaning stations, the chambers may be used in non-cleaning uses or useswhere cleaning the appendage is not the principal purpose of use(although some cleaning may still occur), such as for application of atopical treatment to an appendage. By way of example and not limitation,the appendage receiving members, chambers, and/or cylinders describedherein may be used within an alternate device such as a solutiondispensing apparatus for application or treating an appendage with aliquid, such as a liquid containing a medicinal agent or compound.Alternate uses include a system for application of: a tanning agent toan appendage; a moisturizer or non-medical treatment (e.g., perfume,deodorant, etc.) to an appendage; a chemical depilatory to remove hairfrom an appendage; a hot wax to an appendage; etc.

Embodiments of the present invention may also be used for applying aliquid to a tangible object or other item other than an person'sappendage. For example, the automated cleaning stations or adaptationsthereof can be used to wash, rinse, and/or apply a liquid to an animalor an object, such as an object that is being held by a person's hand,or that is being held by a holding mechanism, such as a support or aclamp. Such automated cleaning stations, sub-assemblies, componentsand/or adaptations thereof are within the scope of the presentinvention.

The following U.S. Patents are incorporated herein by reference in theirentirety: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,823,447, 5,265,628; 4,817,651; and 4,925,495.

The present invention, in various embodiments, includes components,methods, processes, systems and/or apparatus substantially as depictedand described herein, including various embodiments, subcombinations,and subsets thereof. Those of skill in the art will understand how tomake and use the present invention after understanding the presentdisclosure. The present invention, in various embodiments, includesproviding devices and processes in the absence of items not depictedand/or described herein or in various embodiments hereof, including inthe absence of such items as may have been used in previous devices orprocesses, e.g., for improving performance, achieving ease and/orreducing cost of implementation.

It is to be noted that the term “a” or “an” entity refers to one or moreof that entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “atleast one” can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be notedthat the terms “comprising”, “including”, and “having” can be usedinterchangeably.

The foregoing discussion of the invention has been presented forpurposes of illustration and description. The foregoing is not intendedto limit the invention to the form or forms disclosed herein. In theforegoing Detailed Description for example, various features of theinvention are grouped together in one or more embodiments for thepurpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is notto be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed inventionrequires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather,as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than allfeatures of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the followingclaims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description, with eachclaim standing on its own as a separate preferred embodiment of theinvention.

Moreover, though the description of the invention has includeddescription of one or more embodiments and certain variations andmodifications, other variations and modifications are within the scopeof the invention, e.g., as may be within the skill and knowledge ofthose in the art, after understanding the present disclosure. It isintended to obtain rights which include alternative embodiments to theextent permitted, including alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalentstructures, functions, ranges or steps to those claimed, whether or notsuch alternate, interchangeable and/or equivalent structures, functions,ranges or steps are disclosed herein, and without intending to publiclydedicate any patentable subject matter.

1. A cleaning station comprising: a body; a rotatable wash chamberassociated with the body, the wash chamber including an inner member andan outer member, the wash chamber including a first end and a secondend, the wash chamber including an axis of rotation; an appendagereceiving cavity located within the inner member, the appendagereceiving cavity adapted for being accessible by at least a portion ofat least one appendage of a person through an opening in the first endof the wash chamber; an annular cavity located between the inner memberand the outer member, the inner member including a first surface and asecond surface, the first surface facing the appendage receiving cavityand the second surface facing the annular cavity; and a plurality ofnozzles disposed on the inner member, the plurality of nozzles adaptedto receive at least one fluid from the annular cavity and to project theat least one fluid into the appendage receiving cavity, wherein at leastone nozzle of said plurality of nozzles includes at least one rib on aninlet side of the at least one nozzle of said plurality of nozzles, theat least one rib being adapted to engage a surface of an inner wall ofthe outer member to maintain a portion of the at least one nozzle ofsaid plurality of nozzles in a selected position and at least preventthe at least one nozzle of said plurality of nozzles from beingdislodged from the selected position during the operation of theautomated cleaning station whereby during operation of the wash chamber,the at least one fluid flows in from a fluid inlet to the annularcavity, into the annular cavity, and through the plurality of nozzlesinto the appendage receiving cavity.
 2. The cleaning station of claim 1,wherein: the outer member includes a cylinder portion and afrusto-conical portion, the frusto-conical portion including a flatsurface and a sloped surface, the flat surface including the fluidinlet; the inner member includes a cylinder portion and a frusto-conicalportion, the frusto-conical portion including a flat surface and asloped surface; and wherein the outer member and the inner member areseparate components that interconnect with each other to form the washchamber.
 3. The cleaning station of claim 1, wherein the plurality ofnozzles comprise: a first set of nozzles disposed on the inner member ina formation and proximate to the first end of the wash chamber; a secondset of nozzles disposed on the inner member in a helical pattern along alength of a cylinder portion of the inner member; and a third set ofnozzles disposed on a frusto-conical portion of the inner member,wherein each nozzle of the third set of nozzles includes the at leastone rib.
 4. The cleaning station of claim 1, wherein the annular cavityhas a thickness of between one sixteenth of an inch and one eighth of aninch.
 5. The cleaning station of claim 1, wherein the fluid inletincludes a tubular portion extending from the outer member, the tubularportion being adapted to be received in a seating mechanism disposed onthe automated cleaning station.
 6. A method of using an automatedcleaning station, comprising: initiating a flow of a first cleaningfluid through a fluid inlet disposed on a wash chamber of the automatedcleaning station, the wash chamber including an inner member and anouter member, the wash chamber including a first end and a second end,at least one of the first end and the second end connected to theautomated cleaning station, the wash chamber including an axis ofrotation, the wash chamber including an appendage receiving cavity andan annular cavity, the appendage receiving cavity being located withinthe inner member, the appendage receiving cavity being accessiblethrough an opening in the first end of the wash chamber and beingadapted to receive at least a portion of at least one appendage of aperson for washing, the annular cavity being located between the innermember and the outer member, the inner member including a first surfaceand a second surface, the first surface facing the appendage receivingcavity and the second surface facing the annular cavity; and projectingthe first cleaning fluid from the annular cavity, at different anglesrelative to a longitudinal axis of the wash chamber, through a pluralityof nozzles and into the appendage receiving cavity, the plurality ofnozzles being disposed on the inner member, wherein at least one nozzleof said plurality of nozzles includes at least one rib on an inlet sideof the at least one nozzle of the plurality of nozzles, the at least onerib being adapted to engage a surface of an inner wall of the outermember to maintain a selected position of the at least one nozzle of theplurality of nozzles and at least prevent the at least one nozzle of theplurality of nozzles from being dislodged from the selected positionduring the operation of the automated cleaning station; whereby the washchamber is rotated about the axis of rotation at least during the stepof projecting the first cleaning fluid.
 7. The method of claim 6,wherein: the outer member includes a cylinder portion and afrusto-conical portion, the frusto-conical portion including a flatsurface and a sloped surface, the flat surface including the fluidinlet; the inner member includes a cylinder portion and a frusto-conicalportion, the frusto-conical portion including a flat surface and asloped surface, the inner member further including a fluid guidancestructure being disposed on the flat surface of the inner member; andwherein the outer member and the inner member are separate componentsthat interconnect with each other to form the wash chamber.
 8. Themethod of claim 6, wherein the plurality of nozzles comprise: a firstset of nozzles disposed on the inner member in a formation and proximateto the first end of the wash chamber of the wash chamber to project thefirst cleaning fluid at a first angle relative to the longitudinal axis;a second set of nozzles disposed on the inner member in a helicalpattern along a length of the cylinder portion of the inner member toproject the first cleaning fluid at a first angle relative to thelongitudinal axis; a third set of nozzles disposed on the frusto-conicalportion of the inner member to project the first cleaning fluid at afirst angle relative to the longitudinal axis.
 9. The method of claim 6,further comprising contacting a second fluid with the at least a portionof at least one appendage of a person located within the wash chamber.10. The method of claim 9, wherein one of the first fluid and the secondfluid comprises water, and wherein one of the first fluid and the secondfluid comprises at least one of a soap and a disinfectant.